Grete getting some TLC at Westgate from Hannah Evans, CVT.

By Meredeth Barzen

Grete (pronounced “Greta”) the black lab was hanging out in her usual spot on a pillow in the back hall on a perfectly normal Tuesday in February. Mom was at work, Dad was in Europe on a business trip, and the two girls were at school and Grandma’s house. Like so many retrievers, Grete can be rambunctious and sweet, lively and calm, depending on the moment. “We’ve consistently said she’s 9 years old going on 9 months,” says Grete’s owner, Matt Augustson. When she’s calm, Grete likes to strategically place herself precisely in the center of the family’s activities for a nap. During her livelier moments, Grete likes to show off her tennis-ball-chasing skills in the big yard behind Matt and Jen Augustson’s Edina home. And when someone comes to the door, “Look out,” Matt says. “Barking, jumping … all of the bad habits that dog owners struggle with, and we are no exception. But it’s just who she is. It’s never violent, aggressive or scary—just her way of saying ’hello.’”

But Grete’s mostly a mellow dog, so 2:40 in the afternoon was probably right in the middle of nap time for her that Tuesday, as her family went about their daily business out in the world.

Then, BOOM.

“As far as we can tell from the Edina Fire Chief, a gas leak caused by a utility contractor laying cable in the neighborhood caused natural gas to leak into our house via the sewer line,” Matt says. “From there, it found an ignition source—most likely the water heater or furnace—and caused an explosion.” Grete was the only one at home. She must have been launched out of the house by the force of the explosion, most likely straight up.” The house was a total loss. Grete was the only thing that remained intact.

A person Matt describes as a “Good Samaritan” followed the shaken dog across 50^th Street and through the neighborhoods for a half-mile, then loaded her into her car at 44^th Street and Wooddale Avenue and brought Grete to Westgate Pet Clinic, where Dr. Ben Porter treated her injuries—which were miraculously minor, considering she had just survived a massive gas explosion. “Grete was very nervous immediately after the explosion,” Dr. Porter says. “I suspect that she was not able to hear anything. Since the Augustsons were already clients, we were able to quickly contact them so they knew her location and that she had survived. [Grete] walked into the clinic, and was not afraid or nervous at that time. She allowed our staff to examine her thoroughly, finding surprisingly no broken bones, no lacerations. Many dogs would be fearful after such a terrifying event—her gentle personality and ability to roll with the punches is probably very typical for a Labrador Retriever.”

But even though she escaped major injuries, Grete was a little worse for wear. Dr. Porter says her hair was singed “and she smelled like a campfire times 10. Burns were immediately evident on the pads of her feet, and over the next four days, burns because evident around her nose, muzzle and chin … Her eyelids were damaged from the explosion and have been red and uncomfortable and slow to improve.” Luckily, Grete’s burns were superficial, and most responded to topical treatment and improved over the next five days.

Dr. Porter says the only likely long-term damage to the resilient lab is to her tear glands—she’ll need eye medication for a while—and a couple of burn scars will mean she’ll need to wear sunscreen on the bridge of her nose when she’s out in the sun.

When the Augustsons first saw Grete after the accident, though, Matt describes her appearance as “shocking.” “She looked like a chocolate lab instead of a black lab,” he says. “Her fur was singed around her head and shoulders. She had open sores on three of four paws and her ear. She limped and wobbled along. Her eyes were red and cloudy. The Augustsons’ two daughters, ages five and two, were happy to see their dog, “but it was hard for them because she didn’t look the same,” Jen says.

But things are looking up for Grete and her family. As of last Monday, she no longer needs daily treatments at Westgate. The family is moving into a town house this week; “We can’t wait to get settled again,” Jen says. And members of the Twin Cities pet community are helping out on that front, with an outpouring of support and donations. Sarah Beth Photography, Bone Adventure and Pampered Pooch Playground all gave the Augustsons gift certificates to their businesses. Pampered Pooch also set the family up with a dog bed and some toys and treats to replace what the Augustsons lost in the explosion. Fetch Delivers donated a travel crate, treats and bones; Solid Gold gave a bag of food and Tracie Jacobson of Animal Humane Society sent over a gift certificate to Chuck & Don’s Pet Food Outlet. And to help Matt and Jen let go of some stress, Omni Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is donating massages.

“I cannot believe the amount of support and generosity [shown by] our family, friends and the community,” Matt said. “This is stunning. We cannot express enough how much Grete means to us or how the community has rallied around her and us.” And to his “thank you” list doesn’t stop there. “We can’t thank that Good Samaritan enough. We can’t thank the great vets, techs and staff at Westgate enough—they have adopted Grete as their special canine, and have reached out with concern for our family as well. Dr Porter has been especially thoughtful. It has been amazing watching the care Grete has received and the compassion we have been shown.”

At the end of the day, the fact that the Augustson family—Mom, Dad, kids and dog—are all safe and sound is all anyone could ask for. Grete’s miraculous survival will remain a mystery. “We’ll never really know for sure how she got out of the house, debris, and fire alive,” Matt says. But that doesn’t matter. “She’s our wonder dog!” Jen says. “We’re thinking about getting her a red cape.”

"Lily," by WACSO

By Meredeth Barzen

While the Twin Cities certainly isn’t lacking in talented pet artists (see: pooch painters Stray Dog Arts and Lintu Art)—or talented artists in general, for that matter—one has emerged who stands out from the crowd for his stylized, hyper-local treatment of the people, places and pups that populate our fair cities. WACSO (stands for Walkin’ Around Checkin’ Stuff Out)—a.k.a. Robb Burnham—takes inspiration from everything around him, as his name would suggest. Often, it’ll be the fuzzy face of a four-legged pal, but you’ll see local landmarks like restaurants, architecture and adorable old men on benches represented in his work as well. WACSO will draw your dog if you’d like him too—but he won’t take any money for it, just a suggested $100 donation to a pet rescue (check out this recent portrait of his neighbor, M.A. Rosko’s dog Munter.)

"Munter," by WACSO

“I get a lot of requests from strangers all around the country, which was a bit odd at first because I would really rather meet the dog in person, but I’ve got it down to where I ask them to send me as many photos of the dog as they can. That gives me a pretty good idea of what the dog is like,” Burnham says of his commissioned dog drawings. “I don’t want payment for these drawings so I ask for a donation to be made in my name to a shelter/rescue. I’ll send them a hi-resolution file that they can print however they would like. People have made T-shirts, calendars, mugs … I just had a woman use my drawing to get a tattoo of her dog that passed away. It looked awesome, and I think it was great therapy for her.”

Here’s a look into the philosophy and process that is WACSO:

"Sharing the Bed" by WACSO features the artist's own dogs, Frankie and Grady.

Do you have any dogs?

I have two dogs: a female English bulldog named Frankie and a little block-of-cement French bulldog named Grady. Frankie likes to watch TV—in fact, if the TV is off, she’ll yip until the TV is turned on, and she’ll actually growl at the mugshots they show on news programs. She knows who the bad guys are; it’s pretty funny.

What’s your favorite dog-friendly spot in town?

Sitting outside at Java Jack’s Coffee Cafe is awesome.

Do your dogs make it into your drawings?

Yes, I constantly draw my dogs.

How long have you been drawing?

I’ve been drawing all my life, but didn’t really get serious about it until about five years ago.

Your work really celebrates the everyday and the local—what is it about those subjects that compels you to portray them?

I like everyday things. Life isn’t all about taking big vacations and going to exotic locations. We’re surrounded by all kinds of cool everyday stuff; we just have to stop and look for it. I had done a drawing of the Blackbird Cafe a while back because it’s a cool place. Well, sadly, it burned down recently—such a drag, but I started getting messages from people requesting prints of the drawing. It was really cool to see what that drawing suddenly meant to people and the importance of appreciating and celebrating the things we have.

"Dog in a Coffee Shop," by WACSO

What sorts of characteristics make you want to draw a certain dog? Physical traits? Personality? Setting? Owner?

I’ll draw any dog; they are all awesome. Think about it: You can be having the crappiest day of all time and see a dog and smile—what else can do that?

Why do you like drawing dogs in general?

The dog drawings just seem to make people happy. They make me happy drawing them … I laugh most of the time I’m drawing.

How long does it take you to do a drawing?

It’s hard to say how long a drawing takes; I lose track of time, but I’ll usually do dozens of drawings of a dog before I get the one I like best. Sometimes the best version is the first one I draw and sometimes it’s the last.

How do you decide what form it’s going to take (i.e. single-line drawing, detailed, with or without color, etc?)

I will usually do a few different styles; one-line drawings, a more refined style, add color, etc …, and see which I like best when I’m done.

"Shaggy Dog #3," by WACSO

Do you approach strangers and ask if you can draw their dogs? Are they usually game, or do you ever get resistance?

I’m a pretty shy person. I don’t mind talking to the dogs; it’s owners I have trouble with.

Where can people find your work?

Become a fan of my Facebook page! It’s now dedicated to just my dog drawings. I try to put up a new one every couple of days. You can also check out my Web site, which has all of my drawings.

What do you like about the Twin Cities?

The Twin Cities are fantastic—love it here. Tons of dogs, tons of places to walk dogs and the people are cool. I even dig the winters—all those dogs in boots and outfits crack me up.

By Meredeth Barzen

It’s that time of the year when Twin Citians start getting the itch to get the heck out of Dodge. The dog moms at Sidewalk Dog are no exception, and since we can’t all escape to some tropical paradise, we’ve been thinking about taking a weekend up north—warmth provided not by proximity to the equator, but by the company of our four-legged best friends. And so, we provide to you some ideas for dog-friendly lodging when you decide to load the Weimaraner into the station wagon and soak in some new, snowy scenery. And, since we’re having a hard time relinquishing the whole “tropical vacation” idea, a recipe that will transport you in spirit to a warmer clime. And remember to pack the blender.

A Gunflint guest and her four-legged friend enjoy one of the lodge's special dog-lovers' weekends.

Gunflint Lodge, Grand Marais:

The folks at Gunflint Lodge sure aren’t shy about broadcasting their doggie devotion: Five special dog lovers’ weekends throughout the year take care of that. The next one, March 18-21, will include will include dog massages, a dog photographer, a dog Olympics, dog socials, a skijoring demonstration and anything else your canine’s heart could desire. And even if you don’t stay over an officially dog-themed weekend, dogs are always welcomed with water bowls, treats and an extra throw sheet in each cabin before you arrive. Says owner Bruce Kerfoot, Gunflint’s doggie guests are “sometimes easier to host than people.”

Bluefin Bay

Bluefin Bay, Tofte:

Not only does Bluefin Bay have dog-friendly rooms, but some of them even include Jacuzzis and/or fireplaces. You and your pup will be welcomed enthusiastically at this shore-side getaway with treats at the front desk and affection for all four-legged guests. Bluefin has been pet-friendly since it began 25 years ago, and its new sister resort, Surfside on Lake Superior, has kept up the tradition with pet-friendly units of its own. Plus, there are plenty of places for Fido to roam on the North Shore, like Tofte Park (conveniently located right next to Bluefin), where dogs can actually take a dip in the lake—in the summer, that is. Check out Sidewalk Dog next month for more on Bluefin.

A Superior Shores lakehome

Superior Shores, Two Harbors: Stop by for a treat at the front desk on your way back to your rented condo at this lakeside retreat. Though many guests don’t realize dogs are allowed in certain rentals, owner Darrin Young often brings his border collie and golden retriever to work with him. Says Sidewalk Dog reader Jenn Reed Moses, “Superior Shores is awesome. My dog, who is scared of strangers, actually started putting her paws on the front desk to ask for treats—I was mortified, but the staff loved her and were great about it.”

One of Caribou Highlands' condo units.

Caribou Highlands Lodge, Lutsen:

This Lutsen getaway offers a number of dog-friendly rooms, and in the unlikely event that you get bored, can suggest lots of fun activities for you and your pups, like hiking up to the Poplar River, exploring the nearby state parks or skijoring. Caribou’s Martin Pettersson recommends “being proactive and making your reservations early, since the pet-friendly units are very popular and tend to fill up very fast.”

Stanley the Bernese at a Sea Villa townhouse.

Sea Villa Townhomes at Lutsen Resort, Lutsen:

These one- or two-story townhomes near Lake Superior’s shore tempt people with wood-burning stoves and a beautiful pool/whirlpool/sauna complex. Doggies are drawn to the walking trails and abundance of squirrels. This dog-friendliness was a crucial factor when Carol Taylor, who owns one of the Sea Villas, was shopping around. “Basically, if I couldn’t bring my dog [Stanley, a Bernese Mountain Dog], I wouldn’t want to own,” she says, adding, “Judging from the notes in my guest book, I can tell that being able to bring dogs to the villas is greatly appreciated.”

Sweetgrass Cove

Sweetgrass Cove Guesthouse & Bodywork Studio, Grand Portage:

Secluded on a lovely Lake Superior bay, this guesthouse welcomes well-behaved and “well-groomed” dogs—so it wouldn’t hurt to give Günther the Great Dane a bath before showing up. Though owner Rick Anderson’s beloved Irish terrier Lucy passed away recently, “Now more than ever,” he says, “I welcome my guests with dogs to remind me just how beautiful that relationship can be.” Great hiking trails and the very dog-friendly nearby town of Grand Marais make for a fun doggie visit, and ready access to a massage table makes your stay extra-relaxing.

Now where did you pack that blender?

Piña Coladas, SidewalkDog.com Style:

½ c. white rum

½ c. coconut cream

2 c. pineapple juice

4 c. ice

Blend until smooth, pour yourself a glass, and throw your dog a bone. Why should people get all the treats?

By Meredeth Barzen

Photos by Sarah Beth Photography

Melinda Jacobs taking in some quality cuddle time with Crosby.

Growing up as daughter of billionaire businessman Irwin Jacobs, entertainment reporter/radio personality/blogger Melinda Jacobs wasted no time ingraining herself in the local pop-culture consciousness. She’s been referred to as “the Twin Cities’ only real socialite” by Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, and though she and husband Howard Grodnick have been married nearly 20 years (“yes, I got married when I was 12,” she says with tongue in cheek in her blog) and have two teenage children, Jacobs—a.k.a. “Melly J.”—certainly hasn’t settled down. The committed dog mom is working on “The Adventures of Melinda Jacobs,” “a satirical look at many of my silly and hopefully funny experiences I’ve encountered through my years in the media world,” and keeps loyal fans updated via her blog. And judging from the videos of her dogs she posts on YouTube (see below), her home life is just as silly and funny as her time out on the town. As part of our locally acclaimed series “Almost Famous Dogs,” here’s a glimpse inside The Adventures of Melinda, Crosby and Ernie Jacobs.

Dogs’ names: Crosby and Ernie

Dogs’ nicknames: “Monkey Man” and “Baby Boy” for Crosby, and we call Ernie “Ernsky” and “Big Man”

Breeds: Crosby: Brussels griffon; Ernie: schnauzer (we think!)

Ages: Crosby: 1½; Ernie: 14

Favorite toy: Toy key ring

Dogs’ favorite place to hang out: Kitchen

Favorite dog park: Off-leash area at Bryant Lake Regional Park

Favorite dog-friendly restaurant: Lucia’s

Favorite pet store: Bone Adventure

Favorite dog-friendly vacation: Cabin up north

Dogs’ best tricks: Crosby sits on Ernie to take away his bone. Also, the dogs like to snuggle up on top of the couch and chew on my cashmere blankets.

Ernie and his younger brother/best friend, the snaggletoothed Crosby.

Dogs’ best friend: Ernie’s best friend is his brother.

Dogs’ nemesis: For Crosby, it’s feet with socks on.

Favorite naughty behavior or bad habit: If you raise your voice or yell at Crosby, he barks back at you.

Favorite way to get attention/treats: Crosby takes things out of my purse and wants me to chase him to get it back.

Sleep on bed, couch, dog bed, floor, or outside: They sleep in a big bed with each other.

Be honest: Do you ever use baby talk when speaking to your dogs? All the time

Are your dogs friends with any other celebrity dogs? We meet new friends at the dog park all the time, and many of the dogs should be celebrities if they are not already.

Do you support any local animal causes? My family loves animals and nature. We’re big fans of the Animal Humane Society and Top Dog Foundation.

Anything else we should know about your dogs? We are not completely convinced that Brussels griffons are entirely canine—we think they are actually part monkey and cat as well.  Also, Crosby likes to run around with a bottle of water in his mouth, and Ernie only has seven teeth, but can eat like a horse.

Presenting Crosby Jacobs in “Brussels Griffon and the Thong”:

By Meredeth Barzen

Pets on Wheels volunteer Gracie visits Park Health & Rehabilitation Center in St. Louis Park. "Gracie loves visiting the residents and gets really excited when we round the corner to the building," says her mom Georgene Davy.

Loyal Sidewalk Dog readers know more than anyone that a good doggie cuddle session is more comforting than chicken soup, fleece blankets and roaring fires combined. Unfortunately, not everyone has 24/7 access to a canine comforter. But Pets on Wheels, a local nonprofit that provides pet visits to nursing homes and assisted living facilities, has plenty of surrogates on hand for those who need them.

The group was formed a couple of years ago by Tia Henry-Johnson, who was helping her friend on a research project where she saw firsthand the way pets can alleviate loneliness for seniors and calm those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The concept hit home for Tia, whose mom struggled with Alzheimer’s. Today, Pets on Wheels organizes 29 volunteers, who bring their pets to 25 nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

“With people who are temporarily in nursing homes to recover from a surgery or injury, pets can be a big part in the rehabilitation process,” says Lynne Forbragd, the group’s director. “It helps brighten their days and it can help the patient recover faster. In Alzheimer’s patients, we have seen people break their silence who have not spoken for long periods of time and suddenly start a conversation with the volunteer.”

Winnie, a Pets on Wheels volunteer, visiting with an appreciative friend.

Nursing home residents who meet a Pets on Wheels pooch often strike up a conversation about a pet they used to love and form a friendship with the volunteer, Lynne says. And though the organization currently works only with seniors, they’re looking to expand the program to include hospices and working with children who are hospitalized for long periods of time due to illness, Lynne says.

If you’d like to get involved, the group always needs volunteers and their four-legged friends. Though therapy dogs are welcomed in the program, nursing homes and assisted living facilities often don’t require that your pup be credentialed, only well-behaved and up-to-date on his shots. “Dogs who are gentle, loving and have even temperaments,” make good Pets on Wheels volunteers, Lynne says. “They must be well-socialized with people of all ages and other animals, and listen well to their owners.”

And the reward for your time? Lynne sums it up: “Lots of hugs, smiles and gratitude.”

By Meredeth Barzen

Walking into Uptown’s Smitten Kitten, it’ll be clear that it’s not a cat-supply store (though they do sell toys). As this is a family blog, we’ll have to be rather obtuse about the Kitten’s inventory, but let’s just say it’s mainly toys that aren’t made for kids or pets. You’d stop by to pick up something to put a little spring in your step, to make those cold, February days trapped indoors with your sweetie a little sweeter. Or, you’d stop by to say hello to Smitten Kitten’s shop dogs: Annie Mae, a 4-year-old Shih Tzu/Brussels Griffon mix and Sally, a 6-year-old Chihuahua who was rescued from a puppy mill by Underdog Rescue.

Annie Mae

“Smitten Kitten has welcomed a variety of dogs into our shop since we opened nearly seven years ago,” says Dog Mom and proprietor Jennifer Pritchett. “At one time or another, not only have I had the privilege of bringing my pups to work but I also welcome staff to bring their canines in. Not only is it wonderful for our staff to have our dog companions here, but our customers enjoy the warm, relaxed atmosphere too.”

And while a certain stigma falls over adult stores, Smitten Kitten aims to present an air of warm, welcoming, educational health and wellness. Friendly, approachable staff and doggie pals Annie Mae and Sally are a big part of that atmosphere. “Many people who are new to Smitten Kitten are not only nervous about sex and sexuality generally speaking, but also feel trepidation about coming in to a “sex shop” because they have only experienced distasteful stores that cater to the raunchy video, cheap novelty and immature gag gifts. Having shop dogs relaxing in our friendly, boutique-style store is welcoming and a breath of fresh air for everybody,” Jennifer says.

Sally

Though her pooches aren’t often in the store these days—Sally ’s puppy mill-past means she can find the constant stream of new faces and situations a little stressful, and Annie Mae prefers to stay attached at the hip to her dog-sis—Jennifer points out that Smitten Kitten welcomes customers’ dogs into the store. “Of course, we expect good behavior but we can’t help but smile when one of our dog friends gets rascally, too,” she says.

And with Valentine’s Day coming up this weekend, it’s the perfect time to stop in and pick up something of the amorous nature. Jennifer and the gang have ordered special soy massage candles: Stop in on Sunday between 10 a.m. and noon for a free one with a purchase of $25 or more. And be sure to bring along the love of your life: your dog!

By Meredeth Barzen

“THIS JUST IN: Tens of thousands around the Twin Cities metro area were reduced to uncontrollable fits of hugging after the Internet release of the Twin Cities Puppy Bowl’s full-length footage.”

Don’t be surprised if you see that headline flit across the Star Tribune’s front page this week—the Twin Cities Puppy Bowl is coming, and trust us: It’s going to be huge. Hugely endearing, that is.

Clarence of Red Lake Rosie's Rescue takes a time out.

It all started when Lisa Weikle, general manager of Fetch Delivers, was struck with inspiration—to team up with Sidewalk Dog, Sarah Beth Photography and Pampered Pooch Playground, creating a Fantastic Four-style super-squad with only one purpose: put a bunch of puppies in a room and film the inevitable explosion of cuteness that ensues. “I wanted to bring these four groups together, since I know we share the same passion for animal rescue,” Lisa said.

Okay, so we copied Animal Planet’s idea.

But what makes the Twin Cities Puppy Bowl different is that the star players are from local rescue groups like Safe Hands Rescue, Red Lake Rosie’s Rescue, Secondhand Hounds, All Dog Rescue, Minnesota Boxer Rescue, Pet Project Rescue, Rice County Humane Society and Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue.

“It’s great exposure for a new rescue like Secondhand Hounds,” said the group’s founder, Rachel Mairose. “It shows that there’s a need for adoptive parents out there, and there are always puppies available for adoption.” She added, “Who doesn’t like cute puppies?” Answer: no one we want to associate with, that’s for sure.

Check out each pup's personal trading card, designed by Sarah Beth Photography.

“We all have a vested interest in making sure these guys get placed with good families,” said Suzanne Grindle of Safe Hands, a 3-year-old rescue that gets many of its puppies from the high-kill Harlan County Animal Shelter in Kentucky. Some TC Puppy Bowl players came from as far away as Mexico, like Pete from Pet Project Rescue, which works with a Mexican shelter to place puppies and encourage spay/neuter initiatives.

And so, last Saturday, Pampered Pooch Playground was filled to the gills with adorable rescue puppies, pouncing and frolicking and donning adorable, hastily-knitted (but unfortunately, not prescient) Vikings sweaters.

Molly Feeney of Just Paws Puppy Training (shown here with Aldo—not a TC Puppy Bowl player, but a football fan nonetheless) played ref.

Molly Feeney of Just Paws Puppy Training put on her referee shirt to make some tough calls, Clyde’s K9 Cuisine (formerly Well Pet Foods) whipped up some special football treats to re-energize the noble athletes, and The Dog Perk outfitted players in jersey bandanas. Stunt Puppy, Topline Canine, ScoopyPoo and DoodyCalls also helped the day go off without a hitch, and the pups (and people) went home tired and happy.

Pete runs the controversial somersault play.

The result debuts this week on TC Puppy Bowl’s Web site and Facebook page, complete with insightful commentary from Tom Scott and George Scot McKelvey. You can also catch it on Super Bowl Sunday before the big game at “the official veterinary clinic of the Twin Cities Puppy Bowl”—Pet Crossing Animal Hospital & Dental Clinic, which is throwing a big dog-friendly fundraising shindig complete with food, activities, a silent auction, and a screening of Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl VI. Proceeds from the bash benefit the clinic’s Pet Protection Program for Cornerstone Women’s Shelter, and Sidewalk Dog readers get $5 off if they RSVP by Feb. 4th.

When you watch it for the first time, you may want to don protective headgear—you’ll be hit square in the face with fuzziness, after all. Until then, here’s a teaser to tide you over until the big day!

The Pohlads' girls, left to right: Hannah, Tasha and Luca

By Meredeth Barzen

When Minnesotans hear the name Pohlad, they think of baseball. After all, that’s where local businessman and Minnesota Twins owner Carl Pohlad has made a name for himself. But look a little closer at the prominent family’s favorite causes and you’ll start to associate the name with another great American pastime: dogs.

The Pohlad Family Foundation has supported local pet groups like Helping Paws, says Rebecca Pohlad, who has emerged as the most visibly dog-oriented member of the family. She and husband Robert (one of Carl’s three sons) are Dog Mom and Dog Dad to three of the luckiest German shepherds on the planet—9-year-old Luca, 8-year-old Tasha, and 1-year-old Hannah roam where they will on the couple’s 25-acre property in Washington’s San Juan Islands near Seattle. Hannah likes to chase deer, Pohlad says (“I think she will pass out if she ever catches one!”), and adds that the pup also loves to take a dip in the pool, then shake water all over innocent bystanders.

“Luca loves to be the center of attention,” Rebecca says, “Tasha is aloof, but when she is alone with you, she is a love. Hannah is just plain funny—can’t explain it, but she makes me laugh all the time. She loves to snuggle.”

Though Robert never had dogs growing up, he took his marriage to Rebecca as an excuse to add a canine member to the family. “We got our first cocker spaniel a week after being married and after she died, we have had shepherds ever since—six total in our 32 years of marriage,” Rebecca says. “Our [three] sons loved having what I call ‘the girls,’—they are my female companions.”

And while the Pohlad dogs are living the good life on the West coast, Rebecca and Robert keep local animals close to their hearts as well. Rebecca is a big fan of The Pet Project—so much so that she donated to the group in her dog-loving friends’ names as Christmas gifts last year. “I want people in these troubled times to be able to keep their pets. Families are losing their homes and sometimes do not have enough money for food. What an even worse blow to a family than also having to give up their pet,” she says. “That is why The Pet Project means so much to me.”

Rebecca also counts the Animal Humane Society as a group she believes in. “Animals cannot speak for themselves; they cannot express the hurt of being beaten or being hungry, so we must be there for them,” she says. “The Animal Humane Society of Golden Valley does so much good and they deserve support from all of us that can help. My goal is to not have to see the commercials on TV about animals that are in need; and that all animals will be cared for with kindness and have homes with love and food.” Rebecca adds that she’s just heard about MN SNAP, and will be following their progress as well.

When they’re in town, Rebecca somehow summons up the energy to take three full-grown German shepherds out for a social day. “Our favorite place is Lucia’s,” she says. “They have a lovely water bar for dogs and Lucia also loves dogs and has two of her own.”

And though she finds it hard to explain her love for her dogs, Rebecca offers a mantra that she and her family live by: “Be thankful for what you have. Be aware of what is around you. Use you time, talents or financial support to help those less fortunate.”

If you’re looking for dog-related or just plain dog-friendly events in the Twin Cities, then you’ve come to the right place. From the Events page on our Web site to our monthly newsletter to our Facebook page to this very blog, we’re constantly telling you what you and your dog should be doing. (Hope that’s okay!)

Below is a sampling of what’s happening over the next couple of weeks.

Various dates/times/locations – Play groups. Each one has a unique spin, so be sure to check out a few before taking your pick: Just Paws Puppy Training’s Mini Paws, The Canine Coach’s Playtime, Pampered Pooch Playground’s Tiny Tails and Fresh Air Training’s Pint-Sized Play.

Thursday, 1/21 – Talk2theAnimals Wisdom Behind the Whiskers radio show. Have you ever had the feeling your pet was trying to tell you something? Join animal communicator Janet Roper of Talk2theAnimals as she defines and talks about the benefits of animal communication. 1-2 p.m. on Diva Toolbox Radio.

Sunday, 1/24 – Animal communication/TTouch workshop. Get in touch with your dog! For just $25, you’ll receive an animal communication reading from Ilga Cimbulis and learn relaxing and calming TTouches from Aloha Pet Care & Dog Training’s Lisa Sellman. 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Auntie Ruth’s Animal Care & Wellness Center in Minnetonka. More info.

The Canine Coach's newest course: Canine Inspired Change

Saturday, 1/30 – Canine Inspired Change info session. The Canine Coach is offering a new course called Canine Inspired Change in which pet partner teams will learn to foster emotional growth and teach social skills to people of all ages in various educational settings. Attend for free or make an optional donation to Red Lake Rosie’s Rescue. For more info, click here. To register, click here.

Saturday, 1/30 – Shure Pets at the Ladies Shopping Expo “Shop to Your Heart’s Content” event.* Visit the Shure Pets “Puppy Love” booth for a special opportunity to buy direct from local consultant Stephanie Thompsen (i.e. the nice lady who comes to your house to show you snazzy pet items). The expo, which will be held at the Andover Community Center, starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 4:30 p.m. For more info, contact Stephanie via her Web site. (See “Pet Parties are a Fun Night In.”)

Sunday, 1/31 – Peaceful protest at Petland. Join the Animal Rights Coalition for a peaceful demonstration from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. outside St. Paul’s Petland, a store that sells puppies obtained from commercial breeders who mass-produce animals. Some posters will be available. Better yet, make your own from artwork obtained here. (See “Saying No to Puppy Mills: Peaceful Protest at Petland” for a photo from a recent demonstration at Shakopee’s Petland.)

Thursday, 2/4 – Dog Day at the Metrodome. Indoor, off-leash play plus pet-related vendors in the concourse from 5-9 p.m. Only $1 per dog and FREE parking (enter at Gate B). Dogs must be licensed and tagged. Minneapolis Animal Care & Control will sell licenses on-site. Questions? Contact Adam Kocinski at adam@podiumsportsmarketing.com  or at 651.238.2651.

*Note: The Ladies Shopping Expo “Shop to Your Heart’s Content” event is not dog-friendly.

Truffle (left) and Mae amp it up at American Guitar & Band

By Meredeth Barzen

Rock ‘n’ roll is alive and well in the suburbs (we don’t mean the band), and it just so happens to be dog-friendly. For almost 10 years, American Guitar & Band in Maple Grove has been a second home to owners Cory and Stephanie Lake’s dogs, which share the space with customers, music students and other visiting pups. Sidewalk Dog chatted with Cory, a guitar enthusiast and recording engineer, and his wife Stephanie, a design historian and museum curator, about keeping their store friendly to both dogs and rock stars.

Tell us about your dogs.

Cory: Two of our three dogs are at the shop every weekday. Suki, a black pug and the first store dog is now 11, retired from her post, and cruising around in a wheelchair at home. Truffle, our 4-year-old black pug, and Mae, our 4-year-old Bug (Boston terrier/pug) “work” at AG&B.

For years, we talked about getting Suki a friend. During brunch one morning we decided to get a dog—that day. Stephanie and I drove hundreds of miles all over the state, playing with puppies until something clicked. We knew the moment we saw Truffle that she was the one.

Mae arrived from Los Angeles late last year. Stephanie was visiting her sister who had just taken on a huge new job and felt enormously guilty about not spending enough time with her dog. Mae had had a string of bad luck, too, losing a toe to a coyote, an eye to a car accident, and a broken tail somewhere along the way, all of which only made her that much more endearing.  Stephanie adored her and so she asked her sister if she could take her back to the Twin Cities. When she called on her way to the airport, she told me she would be flying home with “one-eyed Mae.” The next day she was snapped into her seatbelt and on her way to work with Truffle.

Owner Cory Lake with Mae and Truffle

How do Truffle and Mae react to other dogs in the store?

Stephanie: We love to see other dogs in the shop and our dogs love it, too—lots of running and chasing, and the occasional crush develops with the regulars. There are a few dogs that they are absolutely crazy about.

How do they feel about customers? How do the customers feel about them?

Stephanie: They are both incredibly sweet and happy to meet everyone. Sometimes they have a lot to say, sometimes just tails wagging. Mae is a superb greeter and we have to admit that Truffle is a bit more jaded. Everyone knows to look for her on Cory’s desk chair. For our music students, getting Truffle’s attention becomes a goal—they bring in treats and toys to win her over. There is a great sense of accomplishment when she gives her approval. The customers love seeing the dogs, and most accept that if they sit down in our coffee lounge they will have one in their lap. We rarely see anyone with a fear of dogs, but if someone is uncomfortable we just pick them up and keep them at bay.

What do you like about having a shop dog? Are there any frustrating moments?

Cory: One of the best things is that they instantly put people at ease and in a better mood.  How can you not laugh when these two little dogs come bounding over? They look ridiculous and it just cracks people up. It also makes it much easier to avoid stilted retail introductions and forced conversations. There is a lot of attitude in music retail, but ours is a fun, friendly shop, and the dogs instantly set the tone.

The most frustrating thing is that they will eat anything—Mae developed a rock-salt-eating habit, and Truffle likes packing peanuts. It is a bit harder to keep them safe in a public space, but they also have a lot of people that watch out for them.

You'll have to visit AG&B to find out if Truffle can hold a beat ...

Do you think having a shop dog draws people to patronize your store?

Cory: Without question. If they are at home, I get asked about them all day. It definitely gives people another reason to look forward to stopping in. They also are a huge draw for our music lesson program. We teach hundreds of elementary and junior-high school students, and seeing the dogs each week provides extra incentive to get to their lessons. It is a perk for parents, too, who can bring in their younger kids to play with the dogs and stay entertained.

We love our dogs; they are our family, and we want to have them around us as much as possible. We are incredibly lucky to own a business where they have roles and where they have fun.